Training Course “Fundamentals of Telemedicine” for Students of Medical Universities

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICT) are of growing importance in healthcare and medical education. So doctors should gain skills and knowledge of general ICT’s and telemedicine application during their study at University. In 2013 an optional educational course "Fundamentals of telemedicine and e-health" was developed for students of the medical faculty in Nizhny Novgorod state medical Academy.  Development of the course was preceded by a survey of student’s awareness and attitudes to various aspects of ICT’s application in medicine. The results of the survey showed that 60.4% of 149 respondents had a rough idea the term "telemedicine", while only 27.0% were able to formulate an acceptable definition of the concept. Students had a high level of general computer knowledge and a variety of the opinions about the value of ICT’s in healthcare, but a lack of information about telemedicine. A large group of students expressed a desire to gain additional knowledge and skills in telemedicine. In response, a theoretical and practical course, "Fundamentals of telemedicine", was developed. It entails of 24 hours of lectures, 22 hours of practice, 24 hours of self-study and a final test, and includes tele-education elements. The results of tests in the three years that it has been run show that the main objectives of the course have been effectively implemented.